The Rockford men’s water polo team excels in the classroom as well as in the pool

Rockford Public Schools is honored to announce that three team members have been selected as academic all Americans for the 2012-2013 school year. Dan Zang Rockford High School principal stated “We are very proud of these fine young men and this very prestigious recognition. We wish them continued success in polo and so appreciate their commitment to excellence in the classroom.” In order to qualify for this honor the selectees must have participated in a national water polo event. The Rockford Aquatic Club traveled this past summer to California to compete against teams from around the United States in the water polo Junior Olympics. Each of these three young men were starters on the junior Olympic team. To be selected, a nominee must carry a minimum 3.6 GPA. The three seniors this year each achieved the ranking of “Outstanding Academic All American” signifying that they carry a GPA of above a 4.0. Water Polo coach Dave McWatters is very proud of the three; “These young men represent the best of the Rockford student-athlete: succeeding in the classroom and in athletic competition. They are great role models for younger kids who want to accomplish great things both academically and athletically.” This years “Outstanding Academic All Americans” are seniors Grant Beach, Corey Fase, and Nick Willison.

Grant Beach enjoys chemistry and is considering careers in pharmacy or chemistry and is unsure of his college choice at this time but is interested in Michigan, Michigan State, Grand Valley, and Ferris.

Corey Fase is in the goal for the Rams and enjoys chemistry and math and is considering a career in the biomedical field. He is unsure of his college selection but would like to continue participating in either polo or crew at the next level.

Nick is interested in continuing his studies in biology and chemistry in college. He will pursue a pre-med program in college and is currently unsure of where he will attend next year. He will most likely attend and out of state institution next year.

Rockford Athletic Director Tim Erickson said these young men are fine examples of Rockford student athletes. “Experiencing success in athletics and academics is something that takes a tremendous amount of work. Athletes who are able to balance school work with contests, practices and all of the challenges that today’s teens face are special individuals. We are proud of these 3 Sr. water polo players who serve as great examples of student – athletes.”

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